Psychophysiological and Psychological Responses to Self-Poisoning and Self-Cutting: a Within-Subject Comparison

This presentation reported on a preliminary study which attempted to determine if self-harm behaviours performed by the same individuals could be distinguished on the basis of psychophysiological responses to the act. A personalised guided imagery methodology was used. Results indicated self-cutting was associated with a tension reduction response whereas self-poisoning did not mirror this response. No differences between the behaviours were evident for the psychological responses. Results may have potentially significant implications for the management of these behaviours.